Understanding the Causes of Clunking Noises

A common cause is an unbalanced load. When clothes are unevenly distributed within the drum, the washer struggles to maintain balance during the spin cycle, leading to excessive vibrations and noise. If your washer bangs during the spin cycle, it may be due to this imbalance. To prevent this, ensure you load your washer evenly, mixing heavy and light items to create a balanced weight distribution.

Another reason for clunking noises could be the presence of foreign objects in the drum. Items like coins, buttons, or small objects left in pockets can become dislodged during the wash cycle, causing a rattle or clunk as they move around. To avoid this issue, always check pockets before loading clothes into the washer and periodically inspect the drum for any objects that may have slipped through. If your washer makes a loud noise and you suspect foreign objects, this could be the culprit.

Is it a normal sound? There will be a clunk noise as the drive system shifts from agitation mode to spin mode or vice versa. These sounds are part of the normal washer operation.

If you've checked for unbalanced loads and foreign objects but still hear clunking sounds, it may be time to consult your user manual or contact a qualified technician for further assistance. 

Step-by-Step Solutions to Reduce Noise

1. Unbalanced loads: Consider the way you load your laundry. Repositioning or redistributing your laundry can help balance the load inside the drum. Avoid overloading the washer, as this can lead to an unbalanced load, causing the drum to hit against the sides and create clunking sounds. Ensure that heavy items are balanced with lighter ones for a more stable load.
2. Unlevel washer: Check the washer's leveling feet. An unbalanced washer can lead to excessive noise during operation. Use a level to check side to side and front to back. If it’s not, adjust the leveling feet by turning them clockwise or counterclockwise until the machine is even. This simple adjustment can significantly reduce vibrations and noise. Learn how to use your phone to level household appliances. 
3. Items in Pockets: Before adding clothing to the washer, check the pockets for times that should not be washed, such as coins, small objects, or other foreign objects.